If you are a professional, forget the iPhone and get a SIM-Unlocked Smartphone!

The most anticipated gadget of the year, Apple’s iPhone, will go on sale on June 29 in Apple [[AAPL]] and AT&T [[T]] stores across America. Analysts are confident Apple will hit its target of selling 10 million phones by the end of next year. I am sure no self-respecting 16-25 year-old will be caught without an iPhone. However, if you’re a professional think again.

The iPhone is a SIM-locked phoneRumors are that Cingular supplies SIM unlock codes on-demand after three months of use. Still, I am sure the Cingular plan has a hefty cancellation fee if you think that’s an easy way to get a SIM-unlocked iPhone.. It only works on AT&T’s GSM network (formerly Cingular)Cingular is one of the smaller mobile network operators. Current estimations suggest that Cingular is the 10th largest mobile network operator in the world, with a subscriber base of approx. 59 million users.. If you live in an area where AT&T coverage is weak, you are out-of-luck! What about roaming? Yes, AT&T’s network allows roaming on local GSM networks. However, this service can be very expensive especially internationally.

My overall favorite Smartphone is the Palm Treo 680. It’s available SIM-unlocked, has a full QWERTY keyboard, email client, threaded SMS, and supports a host of 3rd party business applications. You want push email from IMAP accounts – no problem just install BlackBerry Connectâ„¢. The Treo’s changeable lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4 hours of talk time, and up to 300 hours of standby time. The Treo 680 works on the 850/900/1800/1900 GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies.

Is international roaming really important? According to ZDnet.com, 90% of mobile phone users don’t care about international roaming. I am sure the figure is different for professionals. With a SIM-unlocked Smartphone, you can easily change the SIM card. Local disposable SIM cards are readily available overseas especially in Asia. Just pop one into your Treo Smartphone and you’re all set!

See all unlocked cell phones at Amazon.com.
See all at Cellular-Blowout.com.